How to Ensure Proper Health of Newborns in the Summer

As a baby comes to life, many responsibilities come, especially in extreme weather or a change of seasons. The hot and humid months of summer can be harsh for kids who are having their first summer. Therefore, it becomes crucial to ensure, as a parent, that the little one stays comfortable, safe, and healthy during the soaring temperatures of summer.

Whether you are a first-time parent or not, here is a list of newborn care tips provided by Dr. Promilla Bhutani, a general paediatrician in South Delhi. These must be followed to keep the newborn healthy throughout the summer.

1. Focus on Newborn Hydration at all Times.

Daily, adequate water intake is crucial to keep the body well-hydrated. Breastfeeding is a source of hydration and must be frequently provided to newborns, especially when the baby is under 6 months. For formula-fed babies, it’s crucial to provide babies with sufficient, the right formula. Older babies, aged above 6 months, can take small sips of water in between their feedings. Besides, newborns must be checked for signs of dehydration like lethargy, dry mouth, chapped lips, and fewer wet diapers than ordinarily.

2. Keep Newborn Cool and Comfortable.

As in hot months, it’s important to keep newborns cool and clean, so bathe newborns regularly with gentle, fragrance-free soap and cool water, but not overdo it. Be mindful of how and when to bathe a newborn. In case the newborn gets dirty or sweats a lot in between baths, wipe the newborn’s body with a damp washcloth. Overheated newborns must be provided with a sponge bath or wiped with a cool, damp washcloth.

Furthermore, newborns must be dressed in light, breathable fabric like cotton or bamboo. ‘The room where the newborn lies should be well-ventilated. Its temperature should ideally be 20-25°C, maintained with a fan, cooler, or air conditioner. It should have light, breathable bedding. Additionally, a cool pad or cool mist humidifier can be used to keep the air in the room cool and moist’, shares top paediatrician in Delhi. Dr. Promilla Bhutani.

3. Sun Protection is a Must for newborns.

Newborns should be avoided to taken outdoors during peak hours of the afternoon when the sunlight is harsh. If necessary, the baby must be fully covered in breathable, light fabrics, kept in shade, and made to wear a wide-rimmed hat and sunglasses.

4. Maintain Good Hygiene of the Newborn.

The newborn's bottom must be properly cared for, and diapering must be done such that there is no chance of diaper rash. Besides, bug/mosquito repellents must be used to keep newborns safe from vector-borne diseases, which are high in summer.

5. Always Feed Newborns Healthily.

Make sure the newborn is getting sufficient breast milk or infant formula in their first 6 months of life. Breast milk and infant formula are good sources of nutrients- vitamins, minerals, and antibodies that a newborn needs. Vitamin D-fortified milk or formula can be consumed after a year; until then, Vitamin D supplements need to be provided. For older babies, hydrating fruits like cucumber and watermelon can be provided.

6. Ensure the Newborn Takes Proper Rest.

Newborns need to stay calm and healthy in the summer, and for that, they should get enough sleep daily. So, make sure that the bedroom is cool and well-ventilated and the baby is dressed in light, breathable sleepwear. Consider making the newborn sleep in a lightweight sleep sack instead of a blanket.

7. Monitor the Newborn for Signs of Overheating or Any Discomfort.

Keep an eye out for signs of overheating in the body of the newborn, such as flushed skin, excessive sweating, lethargy, and rapid breathing. If any of these signs show up, immediately shift the newborn to a room with a cooler environment, remove extra clothing, and give the baby a cool bath. If there is a heat rash, take prompt action to make the baby's skin cool and dry. Avoid applying any lotions or oils; instead, apply mild, non-scented baby talcum powder. For persistent or worsening rash, consult a paediatrician.

Schedule a Visit to a Paediatrician to Seek Medical Assistance!

Want professional guidance, care, and monitoring as well as appropriate treatment for a newborn in the summer? Reach out to general paediatric doctor in Delhi, Dr. Promilla Bhutani, who is highly experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide variety of newborn health concerns, including heat-related illnesses and that too at a reasonable price!

Visit now for details!